Greetings, I hope the Press Release/FAQ pasted below helps answer some of your questions. We appreciate your patience during this difficult time and understand, as hunters, that this impacts your recreational opportunities. Please know that we are already examining alternatives to extending or expanding the seasons to compensate for any lost days resulting from this ban. I will endeavor to keep you all informed as this evolves. Thank you again for your patience.
Paul Peditto
Director-Wildlife and Heritage Service

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DNR ISSUES FAQ ABOUT FIREARMS DISCHARGE BAN


ANNAPOLIS, MD (October 16, 2002) ¾ Maryland Department of Natural Resources today issued answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ) in response to the Executive Order (EO) issued by Governor Parris N. Glendening banning the discharge of firearms in Prince George’s, Montgomery, Howard and Anne Arundel Counties.



Q: Does the EO apply to hunters?
A: Yes. The EO applies to anyone discharging a firearm or muzzleloader, but does not apply to bow hunters. While bow season is closed during the first early muzzleloader season (Oct. 17-19), state hunting regulations allow hunters to use a bow during the early muzzleloader season. However, deer shot by bow during this early muzzleloader season must be checked in as muzzleloader-harvested deer, and hunters must have muzzleloader stamps (in addition to a hunting license, etc.).



During the Oct. 24-26 muzzleloader season, bow season is open, therefore bow hunters can check deer toward their bow season bag limit and do not need to purchase a muzzeloader stamp.



However, in both muzzleloader split seasons, all hunters, including bowhunters, must wear fluorescent orange.



Who is exempt from the EO?
Private, approved shooting ranges are exempt from the EO.



How do I know if my shooting range is approved for exemption?

Contact County Police to verify if your range has been approved.



What about other counties?
Hunting and the discharge of firearms is allowed in all other counties.





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What about other public hunting areas?

Information about hunting on public lands not in the counties affected can be found in the Guide To Hunting and Trapping 2002-2003 publication or at the DNR Web site, www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/ or by contacting local DNR offices directly.



Does the EO apply to deer management permit holders?
Yes. Firearm discharge by these permit holders is not permitted in the four counties affected.



How long with the EO be in effect?
30 days unless terminated or extended in accordance with the law.



Is DNR issuing any refunds?
No refunds are being issued at this time.



What’s the penalty for violating the EO?
Violating the EO is a misdemeanor that carries a maximum fine of $1,000 and/or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months. Maryland State Police, Natural Resources Police, County Police and other police jurisdictions will enforce the EO.



What if I’m in the woods and I don’t know I’m in one of the banned counties?
Hunters are obligated to know the jurisdiction in which they are hunting.



Is the state planning on extending the season to compensate for lost hunting opportunities?

DNR is examining several alternatives to extending or modifying seasons to compensate for any impact this ban may have on recreation and/or wildlife management.